Refrigerant circuit suction heat control
By controlling superheat in refrigerant circuits through a suction heat exchanger and modulating flowrate based on detected properties, the method improves HVACR system efficiency and stability.
US12595942B2Active Publication Date: 2026-04-07TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC
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Patent Information
- Application Number
- US18/332527
- Authority / Receiving Office
- US · United States
- Patent Type
- Patents(United States)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-06-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-07
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-03-21
AI Technical Summary
Technical Problem
Existing HVACR systems face challenges in effectively controlling superheat in refrigerant circuits, leading to inefficiencies and potential system malfunctions.
Method used
A method and system for controlling superheat in refrigerant circuits by directing a suction stream of working fluid through a suction heat exchanger, modulating the flowrate using a hot fluid control valve based on detected properties and target saturation temperatures, and adjusting the flowrate using a controller to maintain optimal superheat conditions.
Benefits of technology
Enhances the efficiency and stability of HVACR systems by maintaining optimal superheat levels, preventing condensation and ensuring consistent performance.
✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
Abstract
A method is directed to controlling superheat in a refrigerant circuit containing working fluid. The method includes directing a suction stream of the working fluid from the evaporator through the suction heat exchanger and directing the working fluid compressed by the compressor to the suction heat exchanger. The method also includes controlling a flowrate of the compressed working fluid through the suction heat exchanger. The controlling includes modulating a working fluid control valve based on a determined target saturation temperature for the compressed working fluid. A refrigerant circuit includes a main flow path, a bypass flow path, a working fluid control valve, and a controller for the refrigerant circuit. The controller configured to determine a target saturation temperature for the working fluid flowing through the suction heat exchanger in the bypass flow path, and modulate the working fluid control valve based on the target saturation temperature.
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